Stable reduction of CCR5 by RNAi through hematopoietic stem cell transplant in non-human primates

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2007 Aug 7;104(32):13110-5. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0705474104. Epub 2007 Aug 1.

Abstract

RNAi is a powerful method for suppressing gene expression that has tremendous potential for therapeutic applications. However, because endogenous RNAi plays a role in normal cellular functions, delivery and expression of siRNAs must be balanced with safety. Here we report successful stable expression in primates of siRNAs directed to chemokine (c-c motif) receptor 5 (CCR5) introduced through CD34+ hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell transplant. After hematopoietic reconstitution, to date 14 months after transplant, we observe stably marked lymphocytes expressing siRNAs and consistent down-regulation of chemokine (c-c motif) receptor 5 expression. The marked cells are less susceptible to simian immunodeficiency virus infection ex vivo. These studies provide a successful demonstration that siRNAs can be used together with hematopoietic stem cell transplant to stably modulate gene expression in primates and potentially treat blood diseases such as HIV-1.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / therapy
  • Animals
  • CCR5 Receptor Antagonists*
  • Genetic Therapy*
  • HIV-1
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Lymphocytes / virology
  • Macaca mulatta
  • RNA Interference*
  • Receptors, CCR5 / genetics
  • Simian Immunodeficiency Virus / growth & development

Substances

  • CCR5 Receptor Antagonists
  • Receptors, CCR5